Living on a student budget

What’s it like to move across the world to study a cutting-edge, interdisciplinary field? In this episode, we sit down with Clara (Yun-Tsz Tsai), a first-year student in the Computational Social Science Master’s programme at Linköping University. Clara shares her story of growing up in Taiwan, why she chose to study in Sweden, and how she’s navigating life in a new country. We dive into what Computational Social Science actually is, the types of students the programme attracts, and how sociology meets data science to tackle real-world problems. Clara also opens up about cultural differences, managing the academic workload, and future career dreams. Whether you’re curious about studying abroad, interested in social data, or just love a good fika story — you won’t want to miss this conversation! Links from the episode: Read Clara’s blog posts on the LiU International Student Blog Participants: Clara (Yun-Tsz Tsai) and Bartosz Likoński.

Finding a place to live can be one of the most stressful parts of moving to a new country. What if a fellow student built a tool to make it easier? In this episode, we sit down with Aditya Upadhyay, a first-year Aeronautical Engineering student from India, to talk about his experience of moving to Sweden and the challenges of finding student accommodation. Aditya shares how his own housing struggles inspired him to create a Python-based tool that monitors and alerts students about available accommodation options in Linköping. We dive into how the tool works, how it’s already helping others, and his vision for expanding it further. Along the way, Aditya reflects on Swedish culture, settling into a new environment, and — of course — shares his favorite fika. Whether you're a newly admitted student or just curious about how tech can solve real-life problems, this episode shows how a bit of code can go a long way. Links from the episode: Accommodation Direct Monitor tool on GitHub Read more about Direct Monitor tool on LinkedIn Participants: Aditya Upadhyay and Bartosz Likoński.

Sustainability is more than just a buzzword—it’s part of daily life in Sweden. But how do students at Linköping University experience sustainability? What challenges do they face, and how does LiU support them in making greener choices? In this episode, we sit down with Jai Krishnan Murali, a Master’s student in Sustainability Engineering and Management, to explore how sustainability is embedded in student life. From biogas-powered buses and district heating to second-hand culture and industry collaborations, we discuss how Linköping makes sustainable living both accessible and practical. Jai also shares his personal journey from India to Sweden, his thoughts on the biggest sustainability challenges for international students, and how small changes—like learning Sweden’s waste sorting system or choosing second-hand furniture—can make a big impact. We also highlight some exciting trends in Sweden’s sustainability landscape, including AI-powered waste sorting and hydrogen-fueled public transport. Whether you're a student looking to get involved in sustainability or just curious about how Sweden is leading the way, this episode offers valuable insights and practical tips. Links from the episode: Check out LiU’s Student Second-Hand Shop on Instagram Participants: Jai Krishnan Murali and Bartosz Likoński.

Starting a career in a new country can be daunting, but what if there was a way to bridge the gap between international talent and Swedish companies? In this episode, we explore how international students can successfully transition from studying to working in Sweden. We sit down with Hela Galvisbonilla, Project Manager of Switch to Sweden, to discuss the challenges international students face when job hunting, the importance of networking, and how Swedish work culture might differ from what they’re used to. Hela shares valuable insights on how students can make themselves more attractive to employers, the role of language skills in the job market, and which industries offer the most opportunities. We’ll also dive into Switch to Sweden’s matchmaking tool, designed to connect international talent with Swedish companies looking for their skills. Whether you’re just starting your job search or considering staying in Sweden after graduation, this episode is packed with practical advice to help you take the next step. Links from the episode: Find your perfect talent match at Linköping Science Park. Participants: Hela Galvisbonilla and Bartosz Likoński.

In today’s episode, we’re sitting down with Marino Kurilj, President of LUFF (Linköping University Aeronautical Association), to talk about his journey from a small coastal town in Croatia to leading one of Sweden’s most exciting student aerospace projects. Marino shares insights on competing in the SAE Aerodesign competition in Brazil, the challenges and triumphs of building an RC aircraft team, and the future of LUFF as a hub for aviation enthusiasts. Whether you’re passionate about aviation, engineering, or simply curious about what it takes to lead a student organization, this episode is packed with inspiration and practical advice. Don’t miss it! Links from the episode: Visit Team Findus AeroDesign on Instagram for more information. Participants: Marino Kurilj and Bartosz Likoński.

In today’s episode, we’re diving into the world of study counseling—a service that’s often overlooked but can make a huge difference in your academic journey. Whether you’re struggling with time management, unsure about course selections, or feeling stuck on how to balance your studies with other responsibilities, a study counselor can be your guide. We’re excited to sit down with Jonas Johansson, an experienced study counselor, to explore how they support students through challenges big and small. We’ll discuss how to make the most of study counseling sessions common issues students face, and practical strategies to stay on track academically while maintaining your well-being. Whether you’re a first-year student finding your footing or further along in your degree and looking for direction, this episode will shed light on how study counselors can help you navigate your university experience. Stay tuned for tips, insights, and maybe even some advice you didn’t know you needed! Links from the episode: Visit the Study advisory service Read more about Study skills Participants: Fatima Abdullahi-Muhammed and Jonas Johansson.

In this episode, we’re diving into a topic that’s essential for many students: Academic English Support. Whether you’re writing essays, preparing presentations, or conducting research, strong English skills are key to excelling in your studies. But don’t worry—if you’re struggling with academic writing or speaking, you’re not alone, and help is available! We’ll be joined by Maria Straff, an expert in Academic English Support, to explore the resources and programs the university offers. From workshops and one-on-one tutoring to tips for improving your writing, referencing, and presentation skills, this episode is packed with advice to boost your confidence and performance in academic English. So, if you’re looking to refine your language skills, overcome challenges, or simply learn how to communicate more effectively in an academic setting, this is the episode for you. Stay tuned and discover how to make academic English one of your strengths! Links from the episode: Academic English Support: Make an appointment for help Participants: Fatima Abdullahi-Muhammed and Maria Straff.

Moving to a new country for studies is exciting, but it also comes with unique financial challenges. It can feel overwhelming navigating balancing living expenses and personal needs. That's why we're here to share practical tips tailored specifically for international students. Together with Chelsea Draru Deborah, a masters student in Aeronautical Engineering, we'll explore strategies to save on essentials, make the most of student discouts and plan ahead for unexpected costs. We'll also discuss how to navigate part time work opportunities and build long term financial habits that set you up for success. Wether you're new to budgeting or looking to improve your money management skills, this episode is packed with insights to help you thrive financially while studying abroad. Stay tuned to learn how to stretch your budget and take charge of your financial future. Links from the episode: For student discounts - visit and login to Mecenat for more information. Participants: Fatima Abdullahi-Muhammed and Chelsea Draru Deborah.

In this episode, we're exploring the most underrated resources available to every degree students; the library. Sure, we all know it's a place with books - but it's so much more than that! Wether you're researching for a paper, trying to find a quite study space or looking for tools to help you manage your academic workload, LIU's library is packed with resources to make your student life easier and more productive. We'll be sitting down with Benjamin Forsberg, a staff from the library, who'll share insider tips on how to unlock the library's full potential. From accessing digital journals and borrowing tech gadgets to discovering hidden study corners and even getting help with referencing - this episode is all about showing you how to make the library your ultimate academic ally. So, whether you're a regular visitor or haven't stepped inside the library since orientation week, this podcast is for you. Stay tuned to learn how to maximize this incredible resources and take your studies to the next level. Links from the episode: Log on to liunet.liu.se and click on "Use library resources" to access more information. Visit the Linköping University Library-page on the LiU-website. Participants: Fatima Abdullahi-Muhammed and Benjamin Forsberg.

Listen to our new hosts, Fatima and Bartosz, as they introduce themselves and tell you about their journey of how they came to study in Sweden as well as other Interesting facts about Linköping University for International students. And also gives a preview as to what is to come in Season 4 of Fika with Us. Participants: The hosts Fatima Abdullahi-Muhammed and Bartosz Likoński.